I started out in ham radio as a young SWL just in time for the amazing Solar Cycle 19 – will any of us see the like again? Having initially taught myself CW by listening to the ‘thumps’ on a broadcast RX with no BFO, I went on to get my ham license as GM3OOK in 1960. My working life in the marine environment took me to all corners of the world. I often operated /MM and I was very active from Singapore for about ten years as 9V1RS. In the UK I became GD3OOK then G3OOK before retiring to East Malaysia (Borneo) in 2005.
After the move DXpeditioning trips to Africa soon followed, first as A25OOK then C91XO, 3DA0OK, 7P8OK and ZS6/GM3OOK. In this area I have taken part in IOTA activations including a ‘first’ of Sebatik Island OC-295 as 9M4SEB with the local BARC. My other ‘regional’ operations have been as XU7XRO, YB9/GM3OOK, V8FRO and V85/9M6XRO as well as /P and /8 from other East Malaysian IOTA’s. Permission was finally received last year for Spratly and I went with two groups to put on 9M4SLL including one in April this year. A bit further afield, ZL/GD3OOK from Waiheke Island when I was on my way to Rotorua for my son’s wedding – I couldn’t resist the chance! I was also part of the team at 4W6A (Atauro Island OC-232) and the adventure of Campbell Island, ZL9HR, from which many lessons were learned.
I operate all modes from home but with a definite bias towards CW, however, on DXpeditions I am quite happy to do RTTY and SSB as required. I enjoy the challenge of 160m and I always try to give it my best shot!